Épisode Oeil pour oeil S04E20 - Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman Saison 4

"Eye For An Eye"



Written by
Kathryn Ford



Directed by
Gabrielle Beaumont







CBS ENTERTAINMENT PRODUCTIONS Prod. #2244-0420
in association with PRODUCTION DRAFT
THE SULLIVAN COMPANY January 19, 1996
(C) MCMXCVI Rev. Blue, January 24, 1996
CBS Inc. Rev. Pink, January 29, 1996
All Rights Reserved Rev. Yellow, January 31, 1996
Rev. Green, February 5, 1996
Rev. Goldenrod, February 7, 1996
CBS INC. IS THE AUTHOR OF THIS PROGRAM
FOR THE PURPOSE OF COPYRIGHT AND OTHER LAWS

No portion of this material may be copied or distributed without the prior consent of CBS Inc.



DR. QUINN, MEDICINE WOMAN
"Eye For An Eye"
Cast List

MICHAELA QUINN
SULLY

MATTHEW
COLLEEN
BRIAN

LOREN
DOROTHY
REVEREND

JAKE
HANK
PRESTON

ROBERT E
GRACE

HORACE
MYRA

EMMA PIERCE

BECKY
PAUL
JARED

JOHNNY REED

ROSEMARY HART
JASON HART
BEN HART

JUDITH LOGAN
JUDGE
MAN (SPITS ON REED)

FEATURED EXTRAS: HOOKERS
MAN WHO HITS MATTHEW IN THE HEAD
LYNCH MOB OF 12 (INCL. JAKE/HANK) -
LED BY BEN
SAMANTHA
PHOTOGRAPHER
*OLDER WOMAN (P. 46)
*SOME CHILDREN, A MOTHER AND 2 SMALL
BOYS - (P. 47)
BACKGROUND: PEOPLE TO SEE HANGING
SALOON CROWD
SCHOOL KIDS
TOWNSFOLK




TEASER


FADE IN:


EXT. MEADOW - DAY ONE 1

Laughing, MATTHEW and EMMA approach town riding together on Matthew's horse. They slow to a walk and Emma's mood sobers, realizing the afternoon together is ending.

MATTHEW
Next time I'll ride ya to Spencer Lake. It's got a real pretty waterfall you can slide down in the summer.

EMMA
Sounds like fun.

Matthew gives her arm around his waist a tender squeeze.

MATTHEW
We'll do somethin' soon... HEY!

Suddenly a MAN on horseback charges by, causing Matthew to jerk his horse away to avoid a collision. The Man glares back as he canters on to the town. Matthew calms his horse, staring after him in disbelief.

MATTHEW
Did you see that?!

But Emma is sliding herself down, drawing his attention.

MATTHEW
What're you doin'?

EMMA
Sayin' goodbye here.

Matthew dismounts. Reading Emma's nervous glance toward town, he flares.

MATTHEW
Look, if Hank's givin' you trouble --

EMMA
(cuts him off)
Let me handle Hank.

MATTHEW
'Cause if he is, I can take care of him.

Emma calmly considers Matthew.

(CONTINUED)

2.


CONTINUED: 1

EMMA
Matthew, you're much more handsome when you're not so angry.

Emma quickly kisses his cheek and starts backing away.

EMMA
Thanks for today.

MATTHEW
When can I see ya again?

EMMA
I got next Sunday free.

MATTHEW
... Not anymore.

Emma matches his smile before going. As Matthew watches her:


INT. GENERAL STORE - DAY ONE 2

At the counter, LOREN watches BRIAN unwrap a book.

LOREN
It just come in today.

BRIAN
The name book!

LOREN
Got all of 'em in it.

Brian eagerly opens it to look. Curious, DOROTHY drifts over.

BRIAN
(reads)
Pamela, Pandora... Panthea?

DOROTHY
Your folks thinkin' 'bout names for the baby?

BRIAN
They ain't tryin' so hard, but this'll help. Thanks, Mr. Bray.[

(CONTINUED)

3.


CONTINUED: 2

As Brian rushes out, the Man (from earlier) steps to the] counter with a new shirt and candy. He's JOHNNY REED, 30, intense and disheveled, with fresh scratches across one cheek. [Loren starts wrapping Reed's shirt as Reed digs out a wad of bills.

LOREN]
Shirt's seventy-five cents, and the candy's a penny.

[Dorothy regards Reed's face as she takes his money.]

DOROTHY
Those're nasty-lookin' scratches. We got a fine doctor in town.[

REED
Where do I get hot grub?]

Dorothy cools to his rudeness, sets his change on the counter.

DOROTHY
Folks eat "food" at Grace's. Behind the Livery.

Reed jams candy in his mouth and leaves. Dorothy and *Loren watch him go. As they trade amused looks --


EXT. GRACE'S CAFE - DAY ONE 3

Crowded. The REVEREND, PRESTON, JAKE, MYRA and SAMANTHA sit at various tables. Reed is there alone. Across the way, Matthew, SULLY and Colleen take seats as Brian explains his new book.

BRIAN
It tells ya what each name means. Like Brian means "strong."
(then sheepish)
I already looked up that one.

MATTHEW
What's it say 'bout Matthew?

GRACE approaches. Brian searches the book, finds and reads:

BRIAN
"Gift from God."

(CONTINUED)

4.


CONTINUED: 3

MATTHEW
Lemme see that.

Matthew playfully grabs the book. Sully turns to Grace.

SULLY
We're gonna wait for Michaela.

Grace moves on. Colleen pumps Matthew; this is fun.

COLLEEN
What's Ma's name mean?

MATTHEW
It ain't here.

SULLY
Pro'bly with the boy's names.

MATTHEW
Here it is: "like an angel."

COLLEEN
Sounds like Ma. What about me?

Brian snatches the book and looks. Colleen waits expectantly.

BRIAN
Colleen means... "Girl."

COLLEEN
(face falls)
Just "girl"?

REED (O.S.)
I told ya, these eggs's cold!

They look over. Reed is agitated at his table, where he swigs whiskey from a bottle he slams down. Grace stands there calm, sensing she shouldn't challenge this man.

GRACE
I'll just cook you some fresh.

She moves off. Reed sweeps his plate with biscuits off the table.

REED
Can't eat biscuits with no gravy, neither!

Grace stops, her back to Reed. The cafe quiets. Matthew and Sully rise and Matthew starts over. As Grace moves on, Reed stands, pulls a gun from under his coat and points it at --

ROBERT E hurrying over from the Livery. Robert E stops cold.

(CONTINUED)

5.


CONTINUED: (2) 3

REED
Don't try nothin', Boy!

Everything happens fast: people duck under tables, Reverend and Jake rise cautiously, Matthew inches closer. Behind him, Sully sends Colleen and Brian to the dirt with a "stay down." He pulls his tomahawk and slowly moves to the side seeking a clear shot around Matthew and others. Reed suddenly swings his gun 180 to point at Matthew, who freezes, hands out.

REED
Back off! I'm warnin' ya!

MATTHEW
Just stay calm, Mister. Nobody here wants trouble...

Reed shifts his gun to Sully, forcing him to drop his tomahawk. But Sully keeps stepping to the side, drawing Reed's aim --

Mike emerges from the alley with WOLF in tow, oblivious to any danger. Reed swings the gun on Mike, who stops dead in her tracks, hands protecting her unborn. She locks eyes with Reed in terror...

SULLY
Over here!

Sully draws Reed's attention and aim --

? MATTHEW REVEREND
? No -- here! (bravely)
? Over here!

As Reed shifts aim to Matthew, then the Reverend, Wolf growls. Sully and Matthew dive, knocking Reed down. Robert E jumps to help, grabbing the gun. Sully twists Reed's arms hard for Matthew to cuff.

MATTHEW
You just bought a bed in jail!

Once Reed is contained, Sully quickly goes to Mike.

SULLY
You alright?

Mike nods, shakened. They watch Matthew and Robert E wrench Reed to his feet. As they head off, Matthew looks around.

MATTHEW
C'mon out. Everybody's safe!

People slowly emerge from cover. Jake congratulates the Reverend, unnerved. Brian and Colleen rush to Sully and Mike. As Colleen embraces Mike in relief, we:




5A.

(CONTINUED)

5A.


CONTINUED: 3

(CONTINUED)

6.


CONTINUED: (2) 3

ACT ONE


FADE IN:

EXT. MEADOW - DAY ONE 4

Near the road, Brian and Sully throw a baseball back and forth.

BRIAN
I wasn't scared, I knew you 'n Matthew could stop 'im... Whyd'ya think he was so mad?

SULLY
Looked to me like he'd been drinkin'... Things've changed now the town's growin'. We got more strangers comin' 'n goin'.

Brian misses the subtle warning, throws the ball back.

BRIAN
Ma says Colorado Springs could be as big as Boston some day.

Not exactly Sully's ideal. He throws the ball too hard, sailing it over Brian's head. Brian follows it to the edge of the grass where he sees ROSEMARY, 15, walking along the road.

BRIAN
Hey, Rosemary! Where were ya today? We read our stories...

Puzzled, he stops. The girl keeps walking in a slow, unsteady gait. Sully comes over to have a look.

SULLY
That Jason Hart's girl?

BRIAN
She missed school today.

Sully realizes something's wrong. He rounds the fence with Brian following. Rosemary halts at their approach, but gives no sign that she sees them. Her expression is blank under matted hair and dirt. She clutches her muddy coat tightly closed at her chest, her gaze a million miles away.

BRIAN
What's wrong with her?

SULLY
Better run get your ma.

Brian runs off to the clinic. Sully gently reassures the girl.

(CONTINUED)

7.


CONTINUED: 4

SULLY
We're gonna get ya some help... Think you can come with me?

He reaches out, but Rosemary backs away and turns into town. Sully walks at her side, keeping a distance. From the clinic, Mike and Colleen rush outside with Brian.

COLLEEN
Rosemary, what happened?

The girl keeps walking. Mike moves alongside while assessing her condition, then finally steps in front to block her. Rosemary stops, staring right through Mike.

MIKE
Rosemary, I'm going to help you. Colleen and I will take you to the clinic, alright?

Mike touches her arm, but Rosemary shows no reaction. Mike and Sully exchange troubled looks, then Mike tugs on her arm. The girl gives with the pull. Colleen moves to her side, coaxing:

COLLEEN
C'mon. Nobody's gonna hurt you.


+ANOTHER ANGLE - GENERAL STORE 5

Dorothy brings a box out to JASON HART, a kindly widower in his late 40's, loading supplies on the back of his wagon.

DOROTHY
You forgot your apples, Jason.

HART
Leave my head if it weren't stuck to my hat... Thank you.

As he takes the box, Dorothy looks off down the street.

DOROTHY
Isn't that your girl?

Hart follows her look.


+THEIR POV - DOWN STREET 6

of Mike and Colleen gently leading Rosemary toward the clinic with Sully and Brian following close behind.

HART (O.S.)
Rosie...?


8.


+RESUME ANGLE 7

Curious, Hart slowly walks down the street, then, realizing something is wrong, he drops the box and runs. Dorothy follows him to the group easing Rosemary up the clinic step. Hart panics, seeing her condition up close.

HART
My God -- what happened to ya?

MIKE
She just showed up this way. I need to examine her.

HART
Rosemary?!
(no response)
Why ain't she talkin'?

Hart grabs her by the arms, but Sully calmly stops him.

SULLY
Let Dr. Mike look at her.

MIKE
Jason, I promise to speak with you as soon as I know something.

Reluctant, Hart lets go. Mike and Colleen take her inside. As the door closes, Dorothy regards Hart; clearly distraught.

DOROTHY
She's in good hands.

HART
I never seen her this way... Ben 'n I left 'fore sun-up, she was gonna walk herself to school.

SULLY
Where's your boy now?

HART
... Ben? He's at the Livery.

SULLY
I'll get him for ya. Matthew 'n I'll ride to your place, take a look.


INT. CLINIC - SAME MOMENT 8

Rosemary sits on the table, still clutching her coat closed. Mike takes her pulse. Colleen struggles with her emotions as she cleans around Rosemary's split lip and blackening eye.

(CONTINUED)

8A.


CONTINUED: 8

COLLEEN
You're gonna be alright...

(CONTINUED)

8A.


CONTINUED: (2) 8

(CONTINUED)

9.


CONTINUED: (3) 8

MIKE
That's fine, Colleen. Let's help her out of this coat.

She tries opening the coat. Rosemary firmly holds it closed.

MIKE
Rosemary, we need to get this off so we can help you.

Mike gently pries open the girl's fingers. Rosemary remains expressionless as Colleen helps pull open the coat and off her shoulders. Colleen reacts with horror.

COLLEEN
Ma?!

The front of Rosemary's dress has been ripped open, exposing a torn camisole. Her bare shoulders and arms are badly bruised and scratched. Taking this in, Mike's worst fears rise. She turns to Colleen, whose composure is crumbling into tears.

MIKE
Colleen, perhaps it's best if you wait outside with the others.

Colleen painfully meets her look, then leaves without protest. Mike retrieves a tray of instruments. She touches Rosemary's arm, her heart sinking at the realization of what's happened.

MIKE
Oh sweetheart, I'm so sorry...

Mike picks up scissors, then gently explains.

MIKE
I'm going to cut your dress off so this won't hurt you.

Mike waits for a response that clearly isn't coming. She lifts a torn sleeve and begins to cut.


EXT. CLINIC - DAY ONE 9

A solemn group waits. BEN HART, early 20's, has joined his father on the steps. Colleen and Dorothy sit on the bench, Brian waits nearby. As Mike steps outside, Ben quickly starts over. Hart holds him back, stepping over to Mike alone, who moves aside with Hart for privacy.

HART
Rosemary, she gonna be alright?

(CONTINUED)

10.


CONTINUED: 9

MIKE
Her physical injuries don't appear too serious. Still, I'd like to watch her for a few days. You're welcome to stay with her here.

HART
If she ain't so bad, why's she walkin' 'round like she's sleepin'?

MIKE
(delicately)
Rosemary's reacting to a terrible trauma.

Mike isn't prepared for telling a father this kind of news.

MIKE
I'm afraid your daughter -- she's been assaulted by a man.

HART
(shattered)
My baby girl?... You sure?

Mike glances at Colleen down the way, then nods.

MIKE
I examined her thoroughly.

Hart stares as the meaning sinks in, a rage building.

HART
She tell ya who done this?

Mike shakes her head and Hart hurries inside. Seeing his father's reaction, Ben follows, brushing past Mike and into the clinic. As Mike turns her concern to Colleen, Dorothy takes charge.

DOROTHY
Brian, you can help Loren and me at the store.

Brian understands it's not a request. He leaves with Dorothy. Finally alone, Mike sits next to Colleen. An emotional beat.

COLLEEN
Rosemary's been havin' trouble with math. She was gonna come over with Becky tomorrow to study.

Devastated, she looks up at Mike.

(CONTINUED)

11.


CONTINUED: (2) 9

MIKE
I wish there was something I could say...

COLLEEN
She'd never hurt anybody. How could somebody do that to her? How can they be so cruel?

Mike doesn't have an answer. Helpless, she puts her arm supportively around Colleen's shoulder.

COLLEEN
I hope they catch whoever did this.

MIKE
(beat, softly)
Me, too.


+IN THE STREET 10

Matthew rides through town alongside a wagon driven by Sully, his horse tethered behind. Jake and the Reverend join a crowd following the wagon to the clinic where it stops. HANK and others drift from the saloon to watch as Mike and Colleen rush over. An old woman, JUDITH LOGAN, rides numbly in the bed of the wagon next to a body covered with a quilt. Mike lifts the quilt to look.

JUDITH
No need to bother. My husband's dead.

Mike looks into Judith's empty eyes, then sadly covers the old man's face. Sully helps Judith down. The Reverend steps up.

REVEREND
Come with me, Judith. They'll look after Taylor for now.

He eases Judith off as some MEN step up to remove the body. Mike backs out of their way with Sully, Matthew and Jake.

MIKE
What happened?

SULLY
We found Judith on the road lookin' for help. She said a stranger rode in, shot Taylor and robbed their place.

JAKE
Anybody see who done this?

(CONTINUED)

12.


CONTINUED: 10

MATTHEW
She was in the barn. Only saw the killer far away when he was leavin'.

COLLEEN
You think it was him? The same man who hurt Rosemary?

Mike regrettably fills in Sully and Matthew.

MIKE
Rosemary Hart was raped.

As Sully reacts, Matthew fits pieces together in his mind.

MATTHEW
That stranger I arrested -- he had scratches on his face.


INT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - DAY ONE 11

Reed sleeps in a cell, his back to the door. Matthew bursts inside with Sully and Mike on his heels. Jake stays back by the door.

MATTHEW
Wake up, Mister!
(nothing)
Where were you this mornin'?!

Reed doesn't move. Sully finds Reed's coat and searches the pockets as Matthew grabs a cup and HITS the bars.

MATTHEW
Hey! I'm talkin' to you!!

REED
I'm sleepin' here...

MATTHEW
How'd you get those scratches?!

Reed ignores them. Sully checks Reed's hat and finds a folded paper tucked inside; looks:

SULLY
Prison discharge papers... Name's Johnny Reed.

He passes them to Mike so he can keep searching. Mike skims:

(CONTINUED)

13.


CONTINUED: 11

MIKE
He served three years for stabbing a man... released last week.

She looks to Matthew, who quickly unlocks a drawer. He pulls out Reed's gun and smells the barrel.

MATTHEW
It's just been fired.

JUDITH (O.S.)
That's Taylor's gun.

They look over; Judith stands with the Reverend in the doorway. A small crowd is collecting outside.

JUDITH
He's the one kilt my husband.

Everyone reacts. A nasty mood rifles the crowd outside.

JAKE
It's all I need, let's hang 'im.

MATTHEW
Everybody just hold on! Quiet!

Matthew steps to the door, waiting for people outside to settle. He looks pointedly at Jake.

MATTHEW
I'm wirin' for a District Judge. He's gettin' a trial.

DISSOLVE TO:


EXT. CHURCH - DAY TWO 12

Days later. Wagons and horses clutter the meadow around the church where standing spectators fill the open door.

A group of teenagers barred from inside are gathered around the steps; BECKY and PAUL included. Colleen focuses on JARED, who listens through the door while reporting the play by play.

JARED
Ole lady Logan's cryin'. Judge is 'scusin' her to sit down... He's talkin' to Reed now.


14.


INT. CHURCH - SAME MOMENT 13

The makeshift court is packed, a tense and hostile mood fills the air. In the pews sits Mike, Sully, Myra, HORACE, Preston, Dorothy, Loren, Jake, Hank, Grace and Robert E. The Reverend sits with Judith and the Harts. Along the wall stand a few Hookers. Emma is there, watching Matthew at the table where Reed now stands, his hands cuffed and feet shackled. A JUDGE sits at a desk on the pulpit.

JUDGE
I'm offering you one last chance for counsel, Mr. Reed.
(OFF Reed's silence)
Before I pass judgement, have you nothing to say in your defense?

Reed turns and surveys the crowd with a sardonic bravado.

REED
I was a Colorada Volunteer with Colonel Chivington. Fought at Sand Creek, savin' all yer butts from them hostiles...

Mike and Sully trade disturbed reactions.

REED
And this's the thanks ya give me.

BEN
(jumping up)
He ain't even sorry for what he done! Hangin's too good for him!

People SHOUT agreement as the Judge GAVELS over the uproar.

JUDGE
Silence! Sit down, Sir, now!

Hart pulls Ben into his seat and the crowd settles. The Judge considers Reed for a long beat. Reed smirks back defiantly.

JUDGE
For the murder of Taylor Logan, and the rape of Rosemary Hart, I find you guilty --


EXT. CHURCH - SAME MOMENT 14

The teenagers celebrate. Colleen and Becky embrace in relief as the group is waved silent by Jared, leaning in to the door to listen for more. He turns back to the group, grinning.

JARED
Ladies and Gents, we're gonna have ourselves a hangin'.

(CONTINUED)

15.


CONTINUED: 14

More jubilation; Paul and Jared shaking hands; others slapping backs... except Colleen, who watches, quietly growing unsettled over her friends' unabashed joy. Her discomfort catches Becky's eye.

BECKY
What's wrong, Colleen?

COLLEEN
(uncertain)
Everybody's so happy 'bout it...

JARED
Darn straight. He's gonna pay for what he done to Rosemary!

BECKY
(to Colleen)
Don't you want him to pay?

COLLEEN
'Course I do, it's just...

She hesitates, not sure why she's suddenly feeling sick. Paul leans in gleefully to Colleen, his arm around Jared.

PAUL
Reed's gonna meet his Maker!


INT. CHURCH - MOMENTS LATER 15

Robert E, Grace, Horace, Myra and Preston join the crowd moving to the door, Ben and Hart caught in the fray. The Reverend stays seated with Judith. Sully and Mike wait up front where Dorothy makes notes. Reed is seated, WHISTLING to himself. The Judge hands papers over to Matthew.

JUDGE
You reach the hangman in Denver. These're the specifications for the gallows he'll expect.

MATTHEW
We gotta build gallows?

JUDGE
No hangman worth his salt'll use a tree, too messy...
(shakes Matthew's hand)
It's been a pleasure, Sheriff, but I have a train to catch.

The Judge moves off leaving Matthew a little overwhelmed. He catches Mike and Sully's concerned looks, then yanks Reed up.

(CONTINUED)

16.


CONTINUED: 15

MATTHEW
Get up, Reed, we're goin'.

He shoves Reed forward. Mike and Sully follow. Loren, Hank and Jake are part of the group still lingering, the mood nasty. As Matthew and Reed pass --

HANK
Never needed no gallows before, I say we take care 'a things now!

LOREN
Does seem a waste 'a good wood.

Loren avoids Dorothy's look as crowd AD LIBS: "hang 'im now," "let's do it!" Matthew calmly stops in front of Hank.

MATTHEW
We're hangin' him proper, like the judge ordered.

HANK
Can't figure what difference it's gonna make.

PRESTON (O.S.)
A lynching is bad for business, Hank. I'd hate to see that kind of blemish on our town's fine reputation.

They look over to Preston near the door, smiling at the group. Unnoticed, Colleen slips in behind him to listen. Jake considers Preston's words, hating to agree...

JAKE
He's right. We do this hangin' legal-like, folks're gonna see just how civilized we gotten.

PRESTON
People might even want to come see for themselves. And that would be good for business.

Matthew pushes Reed on through as Loren and Hank trade looks with the others: Preston has a point.

LOREN
More'n a thousand folks went to that hangin' at Camden Falls...

Sully's heard enough. Disgusted, he takes Mike's arm.

SULLY
Let's get outta here.

(CONTINUED)

17.


CONTINUED: (2) 15

He edges Mike toward the door, where Jake catches her.

JAKE
Hope you ain't gonna try stoppin' this hangin' like the last time, start givin' speeches.

MIKE
(pointed)
You wanted to hang a boy for stealing food.

Mike looks back at Judith, whose stoic facade has cracked. She sits with the Reverend in an empty pew, weeping. Mike absorbs the pain of a life devastated by murder. It's overwhelming.

MIKE
You won't get any fight from me.

Colleen backs away from the door, surprised by Mike's response. Safely out-of-sight, she watches Mike pass by with Sully.

HOLD on Colleen, trying to make sense of it all.

FADE OUT.

END ACT ONE




18.


ACT TWO


FADE IN:


EXT. CENTER OF TOWN - DAY THREE 16

Construction on the gallows has begun with a flurry; Horace, Hank, Jake and others measuring, sawing and unloading wood, Loren directing from the blueprint, Grace serving coffee to the workers...


+ANOTHER ANGLE 17

Sully drives the wagon by, headed toward the clinic. Mike sits at his side, Brian and Colleen in the back. Everyone's attention is drawn to the activity.

BRIAN
How come they're puttin' it there?

MIKE
It's only temporary, Brian.

Colleen watches in silence, clearly troubled by the sight...


EXT. CLINIC - CONTINUOUS 18

Sully stops the wagon and helps Mike down. As they unload laundry baskets, Colleen and Brian get down with their books.

BRIAN
See ya, Sully. Bye, Ma.

? SULLY MIKE
? See ya after school. Goodbye...

Sully takes a basket into the clinic as the kids start off.

MIKE
Colleen?

Uneasy, Colleen hesitates. Mike steps over, concerned.

MIKE
You've been so quiet. Are you alright?

COLLEEN
Sure... See ya.

Mike watches her rush off. Sully comes out for another basket.

(CONTINUED)

19.


CONTINUED: 18

MIKE
I'm worried about Colleen. I think she's more upset about Rosemary than she's letting on.

SULLY
Maybe she can't talk 'bout it yet. She'll come to ya when she's ready.

A wagon passes loaded with more wood for the gallows. Preston walks alongside in shirt-sleeves. Seeing Mike and Sully, he stops.

PRESTON
Good morning, Michaela, Sully.

MIKE
Mr. Lodge.

Sully takes the last basket inside. Ignoring the slight, Preston proudly regards the early stages of the construction.

PRESTON
That's the last of the wood we'll be needing. She should go up in no time.

MIKE
... She?

PRESTON
Term of endearment, I assure you. Actually, it's rewarding to see the town pull together like this.

Sully returns and hitches up the wagon gate, looking to Mike.

SULLY
I gotta get this to Robert E.

PRESTON
All the men are doing their civic duty, contributing a few hours to build the gallows. Can we count on your help, Sully?

SULLY
Nope.

He climbs up, snaps the reins and drives off. Preston watches.

PRESTON
What is his aversion to serving justice?

(CONTINUED)

20.


CONTINUED: (2) 18

MIKE
I don't speak for my husband, Mr. Lodge. You'll have to ask him yourself.

PRESTON
(covers with smile)
Well... Good day, Michaela.

He hurries on to the gallows. Mike watches him go, lost in thought. Dorothy interrupts the moment, coming over.

DOROTHY
Michaela? Are you alright?

MIKE
Good morning, Dorothy.

Mike smiles, crossing over to the bench.

MIKE
I'm fine... Sit with me?

Mike sits and pats the bench. Dorothy sits with her. The loud activity across the street draws their attention.

MIKE
I never expected to see our town building one of those.

DOROTHY
And the way the word's spreadin'? Why, it's three days off and there're families already camped at the creek.
(a thoughtful beat)
It's a good thing, though. Folks'll know we're a decent, law abidin' town now. We're all gonna be a whole lot safer.

MIKE
I wish I knew that for certain.

DOROTHY
'Course we will. Criminals are gonna know they can't get away with things here. It's awful what that man done, shootin' Taylor. And that poor girl. Then he comes right in the store and buys candy!... How is Rosemary, has there been any change?

(CONTINUED)

21.


CONTINUED: (3) 18

MIKE
She is eating now. Otherwise, she's unresponsive, even to her father.

As they both fall silent...


OMITTED (19-22) 22


EXT. CHURCH - DAY THREE 22A

Colleen is seated alone on the steps. The Reverend exits the church carrying books for school. He's surprised to find Colleen.

REVEREND
Good morning', Colleen.

Colleen quickly rises.

COLLEEN
Reverend...
(a little unsure)
I was hopin' maybe we could talk a minute. Before school?

REVEREND
Of course.

He sits on a step and Colleen resumes her seat. An awkward beat. The Reverend can see that she's troubled and takes the lead.

REVEREND
I imagine you're here because of what's happened to Rosemary. And Mr. Logan.

OFF Colleen's look, the Reverend takes a moment to sort his thoughts.

REVEREND
It's probably difficult to understand how such terrible things can happen to people... How God can let them happen.

Colleen nods, quiet.

(CONTINUED)

22.


CONTINUED: 22A

REVEREND
He offers us guidance in how to live our lives, but He still gives us the choice, Colleen. Sadly, some people will always choose the wrong path. The path of hate and vengence.

COLLEEN
Like Mr. Reed.

A solemn beat. The Reverend searches for the words, knowing he's giving little comfort.

REVEREND
I know it will never change the hurt that's been caused. But one day Mr. Reed will have to face God's judgement for his actions. And God's commandments are quite clear in this matter. "Thou shalt not kill."

ON Colleen's reaction, not feeling any better...


EXT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - DAY THREE 23

Matthew watches Robert E screw a bolt to the outside of the door.

ROBERT E
Won't keep out nobody wantin' in, but it's gonna slow 'em down.

MATTHEW
Sure feel a lot better if I had a deputy. Just 'til it's over.
(silence, a hint)
Don't trust many men... I'd ask Sully, but I need somebody here in town.

Finished, Robert E tugs hard on the bolt, testing it.

ROBERT E
Sorry, Matthew, I can't help ya.

Robert E starts gathering his tools. He catches Matthew's disappointed reaction and stops to explain.

ROBERT E
I ain't sayin' that man in there don't have due what's comin' 'im... Just figure I already seen my fill 'a hangin's.

(CONTINUED)

23.


CONTINUED: 23

Matthew gives him an understanding nod. As Robert E leaves, Matthew slips an open padlock onto the bolt and goes inside --


INT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS 24

In the cell, Reed polishes a boot with his shirt tail. He looks up as Matthew enters and stores his tools.

REED
How's the buildin' comin' 'long?
(silence)
Hope them gallows is right...
(regards his boot)
Wouldn't have no oil, would ya?

MATTHEW
(tightens)
I ain't interested in talkin' to you, Reed.

REED
Ah, Sheriff. Now why is that?

Matthew knows he's being mocked, but he can't resist.

MATTHEW
You're a sick excuse for a man.

Reed stands and goes to the bars. He's got Matthew now.

REED
I dunno. That sweet young schoolgirl might say different -- I think she kinda fancied me. Shoulda seen the way she was carryin' on.

Matthew grabs his hat and heads for the door. Reed's amused.

REED
What's a matter, ya jealous?


EXT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS 25

Matthew comes outside battling his revulsion. As he quickly padlocks the door closed, Reed LAUGHS hideously from inside.

REED (O.S.)
Hey, Sheriff! She was sweet!


24.


INT. RECOVERY ROOM - CLOSE ON ROSEMARY - DAY THREE 26

The girl sits at the french doors staring into space. Behind her, Mike brushes Rosemary's hair, then comes around and sits.

MIKE
There, that should feel better... Would you like to see?

She holds a hand mirror to Rosemary's blank face, hoping for a reaction. Nothing. Mike sets it down, takes the girl's hand.

MIKE
Your father brought one of your dresses. Perhaps later I can help you into it.

Still nothing. At a loss, Mike looks out the french doors.


EXT. CLINIC BALCONY - MOMENT LATER 27

Hart stares out over the town as Mike steps up to the rail beside him. Work on the gallows continues in the distance.

HART
She ever gonna get better?

MIKE
I believe she will...
(OFF Hart's relief)
I saw similar reactions to trauma on the wards during the war. And over time, most men were able to return to normal lives.

HART
How much time?

MIKE
I can't say... But I do think it's time to take Rosemary home. Perhaps familiar surroundings will help.

HART
(thrown)
What'm I gonna do with her there?

MIKE
The same thing you do here. Sit with her. Show your daughter how much you love her...
(beat, delicately)
At some point, it would probably be wise to have a woman around for Rosemary to talk to.
(MORE)

(CONTINUED)

25.


CONTINUED: 27

MIKE (CONT'D)
Someone she feels safe with. And you'll need to watch... for pregnancy.

This reality clearly hadn't occurred to Hart. He looks away.

HART
She's always been the strong one. Even when her ma died... Seein' her like this --

His composure slips and he stops to pull himself together. Mike squeezes his arm in silent understanding.

HART
Dr. Quinn, I'll do whatever you tell me. Whatever it takes to get my girl back again.

As Hart looks painfully back at Mike --


INT. SALOON - NIGHT THREE 28

The crowd is bigger and drunker than usual. Ben Hart stands at the bar near Jake, nursing one of many whiskeys. Loren sits with a group, Preston plays poker where Emma is serving drinks to the men. As Hank passes, Ben holds out his glass. Hank stops, but doesn't pour.

HANK
Think ya had enough, Ben. Why don't ya go on home.

BEN
(grabs bottle)
Don't tell me what I need! Weren't yer sister got shamed.

Ben swigs from the bottle. Sensing trouble, Jake moves closer, but Hank signals him "it's cool." Ben finishes his drink and chokes back his rage.

BEN
Think any man's gonna wanna look at her now?... Ever?

OFF Hank's silence, Ben swings around to face sympathetic eyes.

BEN
I know 'sactly what I need... But we got ourselves a town full 'a stinkin' cowards!

The room grows quiet, uneasy. Hank and Jake trade looks.

(CONTINUED)

26.


CONTINUED: 28

JAKE
Reed's gonna pay for what he --

BEN
(shouts over Jake)
He's still alive!... My sister don't even talk no more, and you're lettin' that animal breathe air!

A troubled silence. Ben wanders the room, mocking them.

BEN
'Cause we gotta do this all nicey-nice. Gotta pay a stranger to come take care 'a our business.
(looks at Preston)
It was your pa shot dead?
(back to Jake)
Or your sister spoiled?... We wouldn't be waitin' for nobody! Reed'd be dancin' from a tree, right now!


INT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - NIGHT THREE 29

Reed is asleep. Matthew sits at his desk reading by lamplight. From the distance, loud VOICES and SHOUTING catches Matthew's attention. He listens until he realizes they're coming this way. Alarmed, Matthew jumps up, grabs his coat and exits.


EXT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS 30

Matthew steps outside as Ben leads a dozen men from the saloon; Jake and Loren included. Matthew steadies himself.

MATTHEW
What're you doin'?

JAKE
Just back away, Matthew, he ain't worth gettin' hurt over.

MATTHEW
He's gonna hang Friday. You're all gonna get what you want --

BEN
Let's get 'im!

(CONTINUED)

27.


CONTINUED: 30

Ben goes for the door and Matthew easily shoves him aside. But as he does, another MAN delivers a blow to Matthew's head and he drops to the ground. Ben and three others disappear inside. Jake leans down to Matthew trying to recover from the blow.

JAKE
I told ya, just stay outta the way.

Men exit with Reed. As Jake joins the mob dragging him off, Emma rushes through to Matthew on the ground.


+ANGLE - WATERTOWER 31

where Hank throws a rope with noose over the frame as the group drags Reed up the street. Preston drifts over to watch. A cowboy runs up leading a horse --


OMITTED (32) 32


+BACK IN THE STREET 33

Dorothy exits the store. Nearby, Loren sees her reaction and quickly defends.

LOREN
Gonna happen sooner or later. May's well be sooner.

DOROTHY
(watches, disturbed)
No... Not like this --

LOREN
He's guilty! Judge said so.

Hank helps lash Reed's hands behind his back. Reed's cool demeanor crumbles as he struggles, fighting for life. As the group SHOUTS for revenge, Matthew races up.

MATTHEW
Stop!... Hank, you can't --

Men close ranks to block him. Matthew sees Reed thrust onto the horse and Hank grabbing the noose. Just as Matthew realizes it's futile -- a SHOTGUN BLASTS. Everyone freezes.

Robert E holds his shotgun pointed in the air. Matthew quickly pushes through to Reed:

(CONTINUED)

28.


CONTINUED: 33

ROBERT E
Sheriff's tryin' to get this done the right way. Figure we oughtta be backin' him.


+ANGLE - GRACE 33A

Terrified, she watches Robert E from her porch...


+BACK IN STREET 33B

Matthew pulls Reed down off the horse. He faces the crowd with a mixture of anger, fear and relief.

MATTHEW
It's over. Everybody go home!

He shoves Reed through the men. Robert E falls in step with Matthew. Suddenly:

BEN (O.S.)
Reed!

Matthew and Reed turn and a gun FIRES. Reed collapses against Matthew and they both go down. Ben hovers nearby, pointing a gun. Jake jumps, pulling Ben back and wrenching away the gun.

JAKE
You coulda hit one of us!

Reed writhes on the ground, shot in the left arm. Matthew looks back at the men, barking orders:

MATTHEW
Get his gun! Somebody grab him!

Matthew scrambles to his feet, helping Robert E pull Reed up. Hank quickly shoves Ben in the opposite direction.

HANK
Better get outta here!... Go!

Panicked, Ben runs. And nobody there is going to stop him.


INT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - SECONDS LATER 34

Matthew and Robert E drag Reed inside and to the cell where they drop him on the cot. Matthew quickly goes back to close the door. He listens... Only distant SOUNDS of the crowd breaking up. Matthew slowly relaxes his guard, but his heart still pounds. Robert E comes over, still holding the shotgun. He peeks out the window as Matthew studies him, grateful.

(CONTINUED)

29.


CONTINUED: 34

MATTHEW
Sounds like they're breakin' up... Thanks.

Robert E meets his look, unsure how he feels about it all.

ROBERT E
He's bleedin'. I'll ride out for Dr. Mike.

MATTHEW
No... It's just a fleshwound.

Matthew grabs a rag from the table and throws it in to Reed, who struggles to sit up, clutching his bloodied arm. Any feelings Matthew has are tightly sealed over.

MATTHEW
Let her sleep.

Matthew goes to his desk. ON Robert E's reaction, we:

FADE OUT.

END ACT TWO




30.


ACT THREE


FADE IN:


OMITTED (35-37) 37


EXT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - DAY FOUR 38

Sully and Mike come up to the office. Sully tries the door, but it's locked from the inside. He KNOCKS.

SULLY
Matthew?... Open up.

Mike peers in the window as Matthew unlocks and opens the door. She looks him over closely.

MIKE
Are you alright?

MATTHEW
I'm fine.

SULLY
We just heard 'bout the lynch mob.


INT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS 39

Matthew lets Mike and Sully in. He calmly plays down the event.

MATTHEW
Robert E helped break it up. Nobody got hurt.

MIKE
Thank God for that.

She glances at the cell where Reed is propped against the wall, half-conscious, the rag tied around his arm soaked in blood. Incredulous, Mike takes this in as Sully, unaware, continues with Matthew.

SULLY
Who was behind it?

MIKE
He's been shot!... Did this happen last night?

Matthew grabs a pot from the stove and sits. He calmly pours his coffee, emotions in check.

(CONTINUED)

31.


CONTINUED: 39

MATTHEW
Ben Hart didn't feel like waitin'.
(to Sully)
Can't say as I blame 'im much.

MIKE
Why didn't you send for me?

MATTHEW
Didn't wanna bother you. He's gonna be dead tomorrow.

Mike and Sully trade looks, disturbed by his casual demeanor.

MIKE
Unlock the cell, please.

SULLY
(uneasy, to Mike)
That ain't such a good idea.

MIKE
I don't have a choice, Sully. He's suffering.

MATTHEW
He sufferin' like he made Rosemary suffer? Or Mrs. Logan?

Mike holds his hard look. She spies keys on his desk, grabs them and goes to the cell. Matthew jumps and meets her at the cell door, but realizes it's futile. Off her determination, he takes the keys back, unlocks and opens the door.

Sully holds Mike back so he can enter first, drawing his tomahawk. Reed is delirious with pain. Sully leans in close, getting Reed's faint attention. Sully's warning is clear.

SULLY
You move one muscle to hurt her...

But Reed is too weak for anything. He shifts his good arm and Sully sees it's cuffed to the cell bars. Satisfied, Sully moves aside allowing Mike in. She's all doctor; opening her bag, donning her stethoscope -- until she meets Reed's glazed look. Mike stares into the eyes of a killer... And with a mixture of feelings, she goes to work.

Removed, Matthew watches from the cell door...


EXT. SCHOOL - ESTABLISHING (STOCK) - DAY FOUR 40

LAUGHTER spills out the open door.


32.


INT. SCHOOL - DAY FOUR 41

Class assembled, including Becky, Colleen and Brian. Most kids are gathered around Paul and Jared sitting atop their desk taking full advantage of the Reverend's absence. The LAUGHTER disturbs Colleen, listening at her seat.

JARED
My pa saw that hangin' at Camden Falls. Says it weren't pretty.

PAUL
That's why they cover the face with a pillowsheet.

COLLEEN
Do we have to talk about this?

PAUL
Right... Can't upset the girls.

JARED
Colleen can handle it, she's tough.

But Paul shoots Jared a conspiratorial glance, then grabs him by the back of the collar and pulls up. Jared playfully makes a face and kicks his legs wildly.